12 Retro Pieces to Accent a Contemporary Space
Bring the past into the present with a colored credenza, shag rug or iconic chair
Shawn Gauthier
September 3, 2011
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected, not decorated, and that homes should always be as comfortable and functional as they are chic. In addition to writing for Houzz, I work as the Head Copywriter for Layla Grayce and Zinc Door.
I'm a freelance writer and design enthusiast who believes the best design is collected,... More
Love your contemporary home but itching to add a sense of the past? The answer may lie in the addition of just the right retro piece. Not only do retro pieces succeed in introducing that sense of nostalgia your interior may be craving, but many also blend well into contemporary settings. Check out these home interiors for types of pieces to consider, and also see how they mix in modern spaces without going '70s cliché.
A shag rug. This entire room is juicy with retro flair — mid-century furniture, yellow and purple upholstery, a green wall panel — but that shag rug is the cherry on top. Layer it over herringbone wood floors and accent it with a contemporary piece of art and you’re mod retro all the way.
A geometric area rug. If the shag isn’t doing it for you, go for some geometry. It’s equally retro and likely less upkeep. You can up the ante of your retro appeal with mid-century furniture or scale back with modern choices. Either will work with this rug.
The Eames Chair. You really can’t go wrong with this chair; it manages to feel retro, modern and timeless all at once, so you can use them forever. Choose colors like burnt oranges and deep greens to enhance the retro nostalgia.
A “Love” poster. Ok, pretty much any artwork that expresses “love” can probably be related to the ‘60s. But the color and composition of this particular poster by Alexander Girard is a retro beat above the rest that will still have a home in any contemporary interior.
The Mobius Table from DWR. Oh, those table legs! The neighborhood will be talking about how cool this table is. It’s mid-century retro contemporized by a glass top. Pair it with a neon lamp and brightly upholstered furniture. and the neighbors will go from talking to drooling.
A colorfully colored credenza. Is it modern? Is it retro? That’s the point; it’s a bit of both. The blue and yellow point to yesterday, the shape can swing both ways, and the stainless steel feet give it the contemporary edge. Talk about killing two birds with one stone!
A wooden credenza. This one, all wood with skinny legs, is definitely more classic retro. Keep it in today’s world by accessorizing it with modern knickknacks.
A futon. Didn’t think futons had anyplace outside college campuses? Think again. Not only will they accomplish that retro feel, but they’ll save space in small dens or offices while providing an extra spot to sleep for the occasional guest. When decorating around it, treat it as a couch. You’ll find it will easily transition into your modern space.
The F511 Lounge Chair from YLiving. This chair makes me want to kick back and listen to the Stones on vinyl. It's definitely an investment piece.
A mid-century office chair. What a great juxtaposition between this burnt-orange chair and the romantic floral curtains with white desk. That hint of an unexpected retro chair gives the whole setup a splash of pizzazz.
Colorful dishware. Regardless of how modern your kitchen is, it can always benefit from a set of dishware in unexpected colors. Instantly retro, instantly chic.
Funky accessories. Too nervous to go all the way with a large piece? Make some room on a console or side table for some accessories with a retro kick.
Next: Retro appliances to revive in your kitchen
Cool Threads: Shag Rugs Stage a Comeback
Next: Retro appliances to revive in your kitchen
Cool Threads: Shag Rugs Stage a Comeback
Related Stories
New This Week
4 New Kitchens With Wonderful Wood Cabinets
Pros share how they used various wood species, styles, stains and details to create warm and welcoming kitchens
Full Story
Bathroom Design
5 Secrets to a Smooth-Running Family Bathroom
Pros say these are the must-have features for creating an efficient shared bathroom
Full Story
Kitchen Makeovers
Kitchen of the Week: Beer, Shuffleboard and Pizza Bring the Fun
Entertaining features and a warm industrial style create a lively atmosphere in this revamped Craftsman bungalow space
Full Story
Trending Now
The 10 Most Popular Bedrooms So Far in 2024
By Becky Harris
Feather your nest in style with inspiration from Houzz readers’ most-saved bedroom photos
Full Story
Working With Pros
Which Pro Should You Hire for Your Project?
Find out whether you need a contractor, an architect, an interior designer or another professional for the job
Full Story
Bathroom Makeovers
Bathroom of the Week: Accessibility and a Relaxing Vibe
By Becky Harris
A design-build firm uses universal design principles when expanding a family bath
Full Story
Housekeeping
How to Clean Your Windows and Keep Them Streak-Free
Try these tips, tricks and tools to wash your windows so they’re crystal clear
Full Story
Entryways
The 10 Most Popular Entries and Mudrooms So Far in 2024
Get ideas for storage setups, color schemes and special details from the most-saved entry photos so far this year
Full Story
Kitchen Design
30 Bold and Beautiful Range Backsplashes
Get ideas for eye-catching tile and stone backsplashes inside stove alcoves and behind cooktops
Full Story
Porches
Porch of the Week: Catching a Breeze in Austin, Texas
By Becky Harris
The new screened-in space has a beautiful fireplace as a focal point and includes lounging and dining spaces
Full Story
These are indeed some cool looking retro chairs. One thing about the mid century style is that encompasses a blend of modernism, retro, and classic styles in one. There are some really cool high quality affordable retro chairs on this site. Check it out.
Memoky.com/loungechairs
Nice article i love the idea book .